Statement

Statement from Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on the Wildfire in Arizona

WASHINGTON, July 1, 2013- Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today made the following statement on the wildfire in Arizona:

"Today, Americans mourn the tragic loss of 19 firefighters who lost their lives on the Yarnell Hill fire near Yarnell, Arizona. Our thoughts and prayers are with the friends and family of these firefighters, and with the community of Yarnell at a very difficult time. Every day, thousands of brave Americans step up to protect people and property from the devastation of wildfire. They put their own lives on the line to do so. As we honor the memory of the 19 firefighters lost in Arizona and others who have already lost their lives this fire season, the U.S. Forest Service will work closely with our Federal partners, the State of Arizona and local authorities to provide support on this fire and assistance for the impacted communities."